Ever since Daniel Farke arrived at Elland Road, Leeds United have always been in the market to sign an attacking midfielder. Ideally, a no.10 that operates best behind the striker.
Georginio Rutter starred in the role during Farke’s first season, after the manager converted him into a 10. But following Rutter’s move to Brighton, Leeds were forced to scour the market for a new playmaker.
Which position do Leeds United need to strengthen most in January?
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Brenden Aaronson returned to Leeds in the summer of 2024 and would start 44 of Leeds’ 46 games in the second tier as the club’s no.10. However, Leeds had tried to sign other attacking midfielders that summer.
Angus Kinnear confirmed interest in James McAtee and Fabio Carvalho, while reports claim Leeds also made a £13m bid for Sheffield United’s Gustavo Hamer. Now, they can finally lure Hamer to Elland Road.
Agent Joe Rothwell can help Leeds United sign Gustavo Hamer
The reigning Championship Player of the Season has endured a difficult start to the season, proving to be somewhat of a rotational option as Chris Wilder works out his best side, having rejoined Sheffield United.
Leeds saw a bid rejected for Hamer in 2024 and then, in the window just gone, Leeds were linked with a late move for the Brazilian. Nothing prevailed, but it shows Hamer remains in Leeds and Farke’s thinking.
But Hamer is about to enter the final 18 months of his Bramall Lane deal, and Sheffield United’s chances of keeping him or raking in top dollar for Hamer are diminishing. Leeds could take advantage in January.
Indeed, Leeds want an attacking midfielder. But if Sheffield United need a replacement before selling, then a recent Elland Road hero could help out. Joe Rothwell has emerged as a target for Sheffield United.
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Joe Rothwell’s Rangers form and Chris Wilder’s Hamer comments
Having left Leeds after a loan from Bournemouth at Elland Road, the 49ers retained Rothwell but as a new signing at Rangers. After a good start however, Rothwell has struggled and is failing to start for the Gers.
Chris Sutton admits he is surprised by Rothwell’s form, and the Blades could now take advantage in the winter window. Especially if Wilder and Sheffield United have to sell Hamer, something Wilder suggested.
“Keeping our best players. But if that time comes, if somebody comes in with an offer that we can’t refuse, we’ve got to put that to the board and see where we are from that,” Wilder said on Hamer’s future.
Rothwell then, has become a target for Sheffield United and a potential move to Bramall Lane could see the Blades become more open to selling Hamer. Rothwell could help Leeds sign long-term target Hamer.
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